There is no way around this fact: Illinois is in the midst of an education funding crisis. The National Education Law Center gave Illinois a “D” on its 2010 School Funding Fairness Report Card and the National Education Association found that our state ranks last in percentage of revenue for public school. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reports that per-student spending has decreased by over 11% since 2008 and the proposed state budget leaves another $200 million shortfall for Illinois schools. Our students are at risk of falling further and further behind.

Fortunately, there is potential help on the horizon. By closing tax loopholes exploited by out-of-state businesses, House Bill 5440 would generate up to $75 million in additional revenue for the Illinois education fund, directly supporting our students by providing critical funding support. This funding could mean more than 1,275 additional teachers in Illinois classrooms, over 30,000 college students receiving tuition grants, or nearly 17,800 children attending pre-school or early childhood education programs.

We can’t afford to let Illinois fall further behind. Support our students and Vote YES on HB 5440!